Scouts BSA for Ages 10–18 in Chicagoland

Leadership That Fits Busy Teen Schedules

Scouts BSA, formerly known as Boy Scouts, is the iconic Scouting America program for teens ages 10–18—now open to all genders. Youth build confidence and leadership through camping, outdoor adventure, and community service while learning skills that last well beyond high school. Troops are welcoming, youth-led, and designed to fit busy teen schedules. If your child is ready for challenge, responsibility, and real-world growth, Scouts BSA delivers.

Find a Troop Near You

What Teens Do in Scouts BSA Today

Scouts BSA is about doing, leading, and growing. Teens plan campouts, hike local trails, learn survival skills, and work together on service projects that make a difference in their communities. The program emphasizes leadership by letting youth run meetings and activities using the patrol method—small teams led by peers, with adults guiding from the sidelines. Along the way, Scouts earn merit badges in life skills, outdoor skills, and STEM areas while building friendships that feel earned.

Group of six people in yellow shirts and green shorts near a lake, rocky terrain, trees, and mountain.

A Youth-Led Program That Builds Real Leadership

Four people on horseback ride on a grassy field in front of tents.

Unlike many activities where adults make the decisions, Scouts BSA puts teens in charge. Youth hold leadership roles, organize events, and learn how to guide others respectfully and responsibly. This structure helps teens practice communication, planning, and teamwork in real situations—skills that translate directly to school, sports, and future careers. For parents, it’s reassuring to see teens grow more confident and accountable over time.

Outdoor Adventure, Close to Home

Scouts BSA brings teens outdoors regularly through camping, hiking, backpacking, and high-energy challenges. In the Chicagoland area, Scouts camp at Rainbow Scout Reservation and explore local parks and preserves, building outdoor confidence without long travel. Summer camp, weekend outings, and special events keep the experience exciting year-round. For teens who spend too much time on screens, this is a healthy way to level up in real life.

The Eagle Scout Journey

Eagle Scout is one of the most respected youth achievements in the country, earned through Scouts BSA. Scouts work toward Eagle by developing leadership, completing merit badges, and leading a significant service project that benefits their community. Colleges, employers, and scholarship committees recognize the dedication behind this achievement. Many well-known leaders—including NFL player David Montgomery—are Eagle Scouts, showing how Scouting can be a launch pad for life.

Girls in Scouts BSA

Yes—girls can join Scouts BSA. Rainbow Council offers all-boy troops and all-girl troops that follow the same program and standards, with equal opportunities to advance and earn Eagle Scout. Troops often collaborate on activities while maintaining separate units, creating a supportive and respectful environment for everyone. Families appreciate that daughters and sons can both experience the same leadership and adventure.

Built to Fit Busy Teen Schedules

Scouts BSA is designed to complement school, sports, band, and other commitments. Most troops meet weekly or bi-weekly, with a weekend outing about once a month. Many Scouts are also athletes and students in demanding programs, and they find Scouting helps them manage time better—not worse. For teens who want meaningful growth without overload, this balance matters.

Honor, Service, and the Order of the Arrow

Service-minded Scouts may be selected for the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s national honor society that recognizes leadership and dedication to helping others. Members participate in service projects and special events that deepen their commitment to community.

 Scouts BSA Near You

There’s a Scouts BSA troop close to home. Troops meet in familiar places like schools, churches, and community centers throughout the region. Whether you’re in Joliet, Bolingbrook, or Plainfield, there’s a welcoming troop nearby with activities and schedules that fit local families. Visiting a meeting is a great way to see the program in action.

Didn’t Do Cub Scouts? No Problem.

Teens can join Scouts BSA even if they’ve never been in Scouting before. Many youth start at age 11 or later and thrive from day one. Younger siblings can begin with Cub Scouts, and older teens can also explore additional options like Venturing for high adventure experiences.

Common Questions About Scouts BSA

  • What is Scouts BSA vs. Boy Scouts?

    Scouts BSA is the modern name for the Boy Scouts program and is open to all genders while keeping the same core values, outdoor adventure, and leadership focus.

  • Can my teen join if they’ve never been a Scout?

    Yes. Youth can join Scouts BSA at age 10 or older, even with no prior Scouting experience.

  • Is Scouts BSA safe?

    Troops follow strict youth protection policies and activities are supervised by trained adult leaders to create a positive, respectful environment.

  • What does it cost to join, and what about uniforms?

    Costs vary by troop and are kept affordable for families. Details about dues and uniforms are available on our cost information page.

  • How do girls participate in Scouts BSA?

    Girls join all-girl troops that follow the same program and advancement path as boy troops, including the opportunity to earn Eagle Scout.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help

Choosing the right activities for your child is a big decision—especially if Scouting is new to your family. If you’re not sure where to start, or you’d like help finding the best fit for your child’s age and interests, our team is happy to help.


You can email us directly at
membership@rainbowcouncil.org

Ready to See a Troop in Action?

If you’re searching for Boy Scouts near you that challenge teens, build leadership, and offer real adventure, Scouts BSA is active and thriving here. Visit a meeting, meet the youth leaders, and see how quickly your teen finds their place.